The Secretary-General of CARICOM, Dr. Carla Barnett on Friday highlighted the ongoing challenges facing women in the Caribbean region, despite celebrating strides towards gender equality.
In a message marking International Women’s Day 2024 under the theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” she said that Caribbean countries this year should celebrate the progress made towards gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Celebrating milestones, recognizing hurdles
While acknowledging the advancements in gender-responsive initiatives across member states, Barnett underscored the persistent gender disparities.
She noted data indicating fewer women earning incomes compared to men, the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work on women and girls, and the prevalence of gender-based violence.
Barnett attributed these challenges to entrenched cultural beliefs and norms perpetuating social inequalities.
The call for enhanced gender machinery
Barnett stressed the importance of investing in strengthening regional and national gender machinery to foster progress.
Emphasizing the need for inclusive social and economic policies, she urged collective efforts from both women and men toward achieving gender equality.
United Nations stands in solidarity
Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed the celebration of women’s achievements globally while acknowledging the formidable obstacles they face.
Guterres commended women and girls for their contributions in breaking stereotypes and driving towards a more equitable world.
Confronting backlash and accelerating progress
Despite progress, Guterres highlighted the persistent epidemic of violence against women and the enduring dominance of male-dominated power structures.
He emphasized the urgency of accelerating progress, expressing concern over the projected timeline for achieving legal equality.
Guterres called for increased support for women’s organizations, investment in programs to combat violence against women, and the promotion of women’s leadership across various sectors.
The imperative of financial support
Guterres underscored the necessity of unlocking finance for sustainable development to facilitate investments in women and girls.
He advocated for greater representation of women in leadership roles within business, finance, and governmental institutions to drive gender-responsive policies and programs.
Guterres emphasized that promoting women’s rights is essential for building fair, peaceful, and prosperous societies, urging collective action toward realizing this goal.
